HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 10-21-1998Adopted Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
October 21, 1998
A regular meeting of the Plymouth City Council was called to order by Mayor Tierney at
7:00 p.m. in the City Center, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., on October 21, 1998.
COUNCIL PRESENT: Mayor Tierney; Councilmembers Bildsoe, Wold, Johnson, Preus„
Spigner, and Black.
ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Johnson, Assistant Manager Lueckert, Public Works
Director Moore, Community Development Director Hurlburt, Planning Supervisor
Senness, Police Lieutenant Ward, Finance Director Hahn, Park and Recreation Director
Blank, City Attorney Knutson, and City Clerk Ahrens.
3 Forum
No one appeared for the Forum.
4.1 General Election, November 3
City Clerk Ahrens presented information on the November 3 General Election.
4.2 Accept Donation from Plymouth Soccer Association
Paul Vincent, President of the Plymouth Soccer Association, presented a donation in the
amount of $3,000.
5 Approve Agenda
Councilmember Johnson requested that Item 9.1 be moved to 8.01.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
approve the agenda as amended. Motion carried, seven ayes.
6 Consent Agenda
Item 6.7 was removed from the Consent Agenda.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
approve the Consent Agenda. Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.1 Approve Minutes
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
approve the proposed minutes for the September 2 Regular Council Meeting, and the
October 14 Special Council Meeting. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 2
6.2 Approve Disbursements
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-626 APPROVING DISBURSEMENTS FOR THE
PERIOD ENDING OCTOBER 9,1998. Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.3 Genuine Parts Company. Conditional Use Permit (98164)
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-627 APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR
GENUINE PARTS COMPANY TO ALLOW ACCESSORY ENCLOSED RETAIL
ACTIVITY AT 12840 HIGHWAY 55 (98164). Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.4 Automate Associates, Inc., Fire Lane Variance (98176)
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-628 APPROVING FIRE LANE VARIANCE FOR
BENSON ORTH ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR THE PROPOSED AUTOMATE
ASSOCIATES, INC. BUILDING NORTH OF 21ST AVENUE NORTH AND EAST
OF NIAGARA LANE (98176). Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.5 Tobacco Licenses
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-629 APPROVING 1998 TOBACCO LICENSE FOR
ERICKSON OIL COMPANIES D/B/A FREEDOM VALU CENTER #66,4140
BERKSHIRE LANE. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-630 APPROVING 1998 TOBACCO LICENSE FOR
PLYMOUTH 1998 LLC, D/B/A CUB FOODS, 4445 NATHAN LANE. Motion
carried, seven ayes.
6.6 Village At Bassett Creek Applications
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-631 AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF AN
APPLICATION TO THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT'S CONTAMINATION CLEANUP GRANT
PROGRAM FOR THE VILLAGE AT BASSETT CREEK DEVELOPMENT.
Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-632 AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF AN
APPLICATION TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL'S LIVABLE
COMMUNITIES TAX BASE REVITALIZATION ACCOUNT FOR THE
VILLAGE AT BASSETT CREEK DEVELOPMENT. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 3
6.9 Frederick and Elizabeth Bosman. Fence Variance (98165)
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-633 APPROVING A VARIANCE FOR FREDERICK
AND ELIZABETH BOSMAN FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1453014TH
AVENUE NORTH (98165). Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.10 Reduction in Required Financial Guarantees
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-634 REDUCING REQUIRED FINANCIAL
GUARANTEE, PLYMOUTH TECHNOLOGY PARK (91031). Motion carried,
seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-635 REDUCING REQUIRED FINANCIAL
GUARANTEE, FERNBROOK TOWNHOMES ADDITION (91044). Motion
carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-636 REDUCING REQUIRED FINANCIAL
GUARANTEE, PARK WOODS TOWNHOMES ADDITION (95127). Motion
carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-637 REDUCING REQUIRED FINANCIAL
GUARANTEE, CONOR MEADOWS ADDITION (96113). Motion carried, seven
ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-638 REDUCING REQUIRED FINANCIAL
GUARANTEE, CONOR MEADOWS PLAT TWO (96150). Motion carried, seven
ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-639 REDUCING REQUIRED FINANCIAL
GUARANTEE, PLUM TREE 3" ADDITION (97034). Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-640 REDUCING REQUIRED FINANCIAL
GUARANTEE, PLUM TREE 4TH ADDITION (98019). Motion carried, seven ayes.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 4
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-641 REDUCING REQUIRED FINANCIAL
GUARANTEE, CONOR MEADOWS PLAT THREE (98092). Motion carried, seven
ayes.
6.11 "No Parking" Sign Installation - Ferndale Road
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-642 AUTHORIZE THE INSTALLATION OF "NO
PARKING" SIGNS ON FERNDALE ROAD - US HWY.12 TO CO. RD 6, CITY
PROJECT NO. 6007. Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.12 Kingsview Lane Street Improvement Project, Project No. 9002
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-643 CALLING FOR HEARING ON IMPROVEMENTS,
KINGSVIEW LANE STREET IMPROVEMENTS, NIAGARA LANE TO
GLEASON LAKE DRIVE, CITY PROJECT NO. 9002. Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.13 Certificates of Exemption, Wetland Conservation Act
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-644 AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE
CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION FROM THE 1991 WETLAND ACT, THE
FLESNER PROPERTY, 16220 OLD ROCKFORD RD., (98162), (El/2 NE1/4 SEC.
17, T118N, R22W). Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-645 AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE
CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION FROM THE 1991 WETLAND ACT, BENSON-
ORTH ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED, (98176), (NW SE SEC. 28, T118N,
R22W). Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.14 Order Public Hearing on Vacation of Right -of -Way, Project 8001
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-646 ORDERING PUBLIC HEARING ON THE
VACATION OF OAK STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY, GLEN GROVE ACRES FIRST
SUBDIVISION. Motion carried, seven ayes.
6.15 Approve Contract Renewal for Access to Hennepin County Data Systems
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-647 RENEW HENNEPIN COUNTY CONTRACT FOR
ACCESS TO COUNTY INFORMATION SYSTEMS. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 5
6.16 Gasoline Service Station License
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-648 APPROVING GASOLINE SERVICE STATION
LICENSE FOR ERICKSON OIL PRODUCTS, INC., D/B/A FREEDOM VALU
CENTER #66,4140 BERKSHIRE LANE. Motion carried, seven ayes.
7.1 1998 Weed Eradication and Destruction Roll 1
Finance Director Hahn presented the staff report on the proposed assessments for 1998
weed eradication and destruction, Roll 1. He recommended that the proposed assessment
for John and Ruth Rounds in the amount of $80 be deleted from the roll.
Mayor Tierney opened the assessment hearing at 7:17 p.m. No one appeared, and the
hearing was closed.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Black, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-649 ADOPTING ASSESSMENTS, 1998 WEED
ERADICATION AND DESTRUCTION, ROLL 1, with the deletion of the Rounds'
assessment. Motion carried, seven ayes.
7.2 Assess 1998 Removal and Destruction of Diseased Trees, Roll 1
Finance Director Hahn presented the staff report on the proposed assessments for 1998
removal and destruction of diseased trees, Roll 1. He noted that a letter of objection to
the assessment has been received from Scott and Joy Rude, 16035 36'h Place North.
Mayor Tierney opened the public hearing at 7:19 p.m. No one appeared, and the hearing
was closed.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-650 ADOPTING ASSESSMENTS, 1998 REMOVAL AND
DESTRUCTION OF DISEASED TREES, ROLL 1. Motion carried, seven ayes.
8.09 (9.1) Appoint Student Members to Youth Advisory Council and Human Rights
Commission
Councilmember Johnson said that she and Councilmember Spigner would like an
alternate member appointed to each Commission in the event that any student member is
unable to complete their term.
Based on the Council Subcommittee interviews, Councilmember Johnson recommended
the appointment of Nnenia Ejebe, Jason Sisk, Amelia Anderson, Sam Kelner, Paul
Lenhardt, Chau Bao Pham, Trent Eisenberg, and Mat Schultz (alternate) to the Youth
Advisory Council.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 6
Based on the Council Subcommittee interviews and her personal interview with one
candidate, Councilmember Spigner recommended the appointment of Becky Malinsky,
Rajit Chakravarty, Perssis Meshkat, Manik Chhabra, and Sara Fraelich (alternate) to the
Human Rights Commission.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Spigner, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-651 APPOINTING THE YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL
AND STUDENT MEMBERS OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION. Motion
carried, seven ayes.
8.1 Selection of Planning Option for Northwest Plymouth (98025)
Mayor Tierney said that the public hearing on the planning options for Northwest
Plymouth has been held by the Planning Commission. She asked speakers to limit their
comments to three minutes and to provide only new information.
Community Development Director Hurlburt presented the staff report on the planning
options for Northwest Plymouth, the area currently outside of the City's urban service
area. She recommended that the Council review and discuss the three planning options,
select a preferred option, and authorize services needed to complete the Comprehensive
Plan Update. The options are no urban expansion, partial urban expansion, and complete
urban area expansion. She described the planning process and said the Planning
Commission has recommended the option of complete urban expansion through the year
2020.
Director Hurlburt showed the conceptual land use plans for the various development
options. The complete urban expansion would result in 18 percent large lots, 13 percent
wetlands, 16 percent for streets and parks, 13 percent for golf courses, and 39 percent
development. The partial urban area option would result in 25 percent large lots, 7
percent wetlands, 9 percent streets and parks, 13 percent golf courses, and 46 percent
development. The no urban area expansion option would result in no extension of sewer
and water services. The primary issues discussed at the public hearing were water
quality/environment, sewer and septic tanks, other infrastructure (roads, water supply),
land use, need for urban expansion, planning process, and development staging.
Director Hurlburt suggested that the Council consider additional conditions to address
concerns expressed at the public hearing. With regard to water quality, the following
condition was recommended, "No urban service area expansions and no development
shall be allowed in northwest Plymouth until detailed plans are completed, a water
management plan and implementation program is adopted and established, and detailed
hydrological studies have been conducted." With regard to development staging under
the complete urban expansion option, the following condition was recommended, "The
area generally west of Vicksburg Lane which is to be serviced by the Elm Creek
interceptor shall not be designated for urban density development by the land use plan
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 7
before the year 2010, and until detailed plans are prepared for the area as part of a future
Comprehensive Plan update." With regard to planning beyond 2020 under the partial
urban expansion option, the following condition was recommended, "The community
facilities plans (including sewer, water, transportation and parks elements) prepared in the
next phase of the Comprehensive Plan update shall not foreclose the possibility of
providing urban services in an economical and efficient way to the entire City." Director
Hurlburt recommended a condition under the partial or no development options to
acknowledge that Minnesota law requires that the City reexamine its Comprehensive Plan
within specified timeframes. She concluded that the Planning Commission recommends
adoption of the option for complete urban expansion through 2020.
Councilmember Preus asked if all of the proposed options define large lots as 20 acres
and whether the large lot areas would remain into the foreseeable future. He asked how
assessments would be handled.
Director Hurlburt responded that most large lots of 20 acres have already been subdivided
into areas of five acres or less. Those areas are proposed to remain as is under the term of
this plan. If a serious environmental problem occurred and there was need for sewer
extension, the City may have to revisit the issue. She said that the City's existing
assessment policies provide that typically the cost for sewer and water is assessed at the
time of hookup.
Paul Wardell, 16395 County Road 47, said that the discussion around the options has
violated the Pro -Plymouth Pledge because the City has failed to build a partnership with
the residents of northwest Plymouth on this issue. He presented the Green -Space
Corridor Option. He said the three options presented by the staff begin with the question
To what extent should northwest Plymouth be urbanized?" which concludes that
urbanization is the single core value. The Green -Space Corridor Option begins with the
question, "How can the quality of life in northwest Plymouth be preserved and enhanced
through urbanization, and so that the quality of life of all Plymouth residents can be
enhanced?" He said the three core values expressed by the people of northwest Plymouth
as documented at the Northwest Plymouth electronic forum of May 14, 1997, are:
preservation of open space/rural lifestyle, protection of the environment, and an ongoing
dialogue with the City.
Linda Abelson, 138 Peninsula Road, represented the Association of Medicine Lake Area
Citizens (AMLAC). She said this remaining green space should be retained. She
believes that full development would result in air pollution, cancer, loss of wildlife
habitat, and noise which would diminish quality of life. AMLAC supports preservation
of wetlands, reduced impervious surfaces, and planned development. She encouraged
adoption of the Green -Space Corridor Option.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 8
Herb Albert, County Road 47, urged the Council to adopt the Planning Commission
recommendation. He believes that it is difficult to predict development 22 years into the
future, and adoption of the no development option ends consideration of the other
options. He noted that 46 percent of the area would not be developed under the full
development option, and wetlands and green spaces would be preserved.
Andrea Brennan, Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners, expressed concern about
the general attrition of affordable housing and the impact this is having on low and
moderate income Plymouth residents. There is value in the complete urban expansion
option in order to meet affordable and life cycle housing goals for future residents.
Paul Hetchler, 5855 Dunkirk Lane, expressed concerns that the City staff has created a
sense of hysteria regarding septic systems. He said that new regulations, technology, and
enforcement has improved the performance of septic systems, and the watershed is not
polluted by septic systems running over except in minor situations. He said that 70
percent of the State is adequately served by septic systems. He spoke in favor of the
hobby farm lifestyle, but believes that 5 acres, rather than 20 acres, is adequate size for
subdivision.
Terrie Christian, 9910 South Shore Drive, showed several examples of property
development in other areas of the City and expressed concerns with wetland protection,
filling, and urban sprawl. She believes that sewers are good and is not opposed to
construction of the interceptor project. She said that homeowners could purchase parcels
as an association in order to provide for open space.
Karen Christofferson, Builders Association of the Twin Cities, supported the option of
complete urban expansion. She said that most people believe Plymouth has done a good
job of planning its development and this should continue through 2020. The City has
much infrastructure in place and the investment has already been made. She supports the
interceptor as a means of regionally sharing the cost of infrastructure to make properties
more affordable. She said the costs of developing an unsewered lot are much higher than
a sewered lot, and it is important to use existing infrastructure or capacity of
infrastructure to provide housing choices.
Peter Coyle, 7900 Xerxes, Bloomington, represented Aurora Investment. This company
develops multi -family and commercial properties and has owned property in northwest
Plymouth since 1988. He said that all cities need to plan for their future. Failure to do so
will limit flexibility to adapt to change. Mr. Coyle supported the complete urban
expansion option. He said that if the City fails to plan, development decisions will be
forced on the City by development in surround communities and sprawl will continue.
This will result in increased housing costs.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 9
Peter Flint, 6110 Lawndale Lane, questioned some of the facts in the consultant's report.
He does not believe that traffic congestion will occur if northwest Plymouth is not
developed. Mr. Flint said that complete urban expansion is irrevocable.
Terry Forbord, 935 East Wayzata Blvd., represented Lundgren Bros. He said that
Lundgren Bros. does not own land in northwest Plymouth, but has been involved in this
process. If the Council selects no urban expansion for northwest Plymouth, Lundgren
Bros. will profit because the land they own in other areas of the City will increase in
value. He said that the no urban expansion option greatly increases the cost of housing
and encourages urban sprawl. He urged the Council to adopt the full urban expansion
scenario. Mr. Forbord stated the City's consultant has worked in cities that elected not to
grow such as Lakeview, Savage, Shakopee, and Chanhassen. After these cities made this
decision, development was haphazard, and they subsequently adopted a Comprehensive
Plan for orderly growth.
Beryl Halldorson, 5705 Dunkirk Lane, supported the complete urban expansion option in
order to avoid haphazard development. She believes the environment will be protected
under this option.
Greg Hoglund, 5635 Dunkirk Lane, showed pictures of northwest Plymouth and
supported the no urban expansion option.
Merrill Paulson, Box 25855, St. Paul, supported the complete urban expansion option.
He said that there has not been affordable housing in Plymouth for years, and this would
be an opportunity for the City to plan for it.
Bill Pritchard, Vice President of Orrin Thompson Homes, supported the complete urban
expansion option for planning purposes. He said that this is only a plan, and a plan is
needed in order to work toward the next step of planning what development should occur.
Sally Strand, 11931 54`h Avenue North, spoke on behalf of the Bass Lake Association and
the Plymouth Lakes Coalition. She supported the condition proposed by staff to protect
water quality. She requested that a condition be added to indicate the City's intent to
acquire all land abutting Lakeshore and wetlands to create a green corridor.
Mike Stulberg, Chairperson of Planning Commission, was present to answer questions.
Mayor Tierney called a 10 -minute break.
Councilmember Wold thanked the Planning Commission for their work on this issue and
specifically Chairperson Stulberg for his leadership.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 10
Councilmember Bildsoe supported the partial expansion option. He said that there is
housing diversity in the City from 40 -acre lots to dense apartments, and his home is
located on what was formerly open space. Councilmember Bildsoe said that northwest
Plymouth lacks a transportation corridor, and there is no access to I-494 from central
Plymouth. It would not make sense to fully develop northwest Plymouth because traffic
problems would result. He suggested that the Council adopt the partial development
option and revisit the plan in 10 years. He noted that an open space referendum was
approved several years ago, and he would support another referendum to decide whether
the City should purchase additional land for open space in northwest Plymouth. Even if
the Council adopts the partial or no urban expansion option tonight, he believes that the
City needs to amend the Transportation Plan and begin right-of-way acquisition. He
would also like to discuss an assessment deferral process. He supports less dense
development east of Vicksburg Lane than exists in the rest of the City and believes that
any discussion of the Comprehensive Plan should address redevelopment of other areas
of the City.
Councilmember Black said that there is a tendency for development to infringe on the
edges of the urban service area. She noted that the City has approved development of the
Wayzata High School site and housing developments outside of the City's urban service
area. She believes that this pressure for development will worsen because the urban
service area will eventually abut northwest Plymouth from all sides. This type of
development around the edges makes it difficult to preserve the wetlands, lakes, and
woodlands; therefore, she supports a plan for complete urban expansion. She does not
view the complete urban expansion option as a decision toward construction of the entire
area. It is a plan to determine how best to preserve the natural resources of the area.
Councilmember Black said the partial expansion option will not work because the urban
service area is no longer just along the southern boundary of this area.
Councilmember Black proposed an alternative resolution for planning of all of northwest
Plymouth with six criteria — preservation of the rural character of the area; preservation of
wetlands, lakes, and woods in the area; no negative impact on the watersheds and water
quality; maintenance of current inflow stream rates; establishment of riparian corridors a
minimum of 100' on each side of the streams; and establishment of greenways and open
space park areas. She said this resolution would establish a committee to prepare the
Comprehensive Plan related to northwest Plymouth. The committee would be comprised
of three residents of northwest Plymouth, two residents of greater Plymouth, two
developers, two Planning Commission members, two Councilmembers, two
Environmental Quality Committee members, and two Park and Recreation Committee
members. She supports another referendum for acquisition of open space.
Motion was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Councilmember Spigner, to
adopt Alternative Resolution D for complete urban expansion with the six criteria.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 11
Councilmember Bildsoe said that full planning makes sense; however, he is concerned
with the legacy that will be established for future Councils. He believes that the
decisions made by the City Council are very transitory.
Councilmember Black said that her proposed resolution identifies goals for the planning
of northwest Plymouth. She believes that full planning is necessary in order to preserve
and purchase open space and to consider establishing conservation easements. If the
Council has not decided what should be preserved for the future, encroaching
development will eventually eliminate preservation options.
Councilmember Johnson said that every option under consideration, in effect, plans the
entire northwest area of the City.
Director Hurlburt explained that the Comprehensive Plan will address the entire City.
The option selected for northwest Plymouth will determine the level of planning for this
area in the Comprehensive Plan. The Metropolitan Urban Service Area line is based on
the City's Comprehensive Plan. The regional policy would indicate that all of Plymouth
should be within the urban service area by 2020.
Councilmember Johnson questioned the role of the advisory committee since this is the
same planning process that has been done for the past two years.
Motion to substitute was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember
Johnson, to change complete expansion to partial expansion.
Councilmember Preus agreed with Councilmember Black that there is need to plan for
the entire area. However, he doesn't believe that the motion accomplishes that planning.
He said that the City would likely have to purchase land in order to establish greenways
and protect open space and those are future issues. He believes the names of the planning
options are misleading. The option for complete urban area expansion could more
accurately be termed limited urban area expansion, and the partial expansion option could
be called very limited urban area expansion. He noted that under all of the options, a
significant amount of large lot development remains. There is a limited amount of
potential affordable housing under the complete urban expansion option and none under
the other options. He is concerned that the partial urban expansion and no urban
expansion options would have negative long-term results because the City will lose
choices if the entire area is not planned.
Councilmember Bildsoe said that he supports a review in 10 years so that a future City
Council can again evaluate the options. He believes the City should begin to acquire
right-of-way for future roads.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 12
Councilmember Preus said that according to state law, the City is required to review the
Comprehensive Plan in 10 years. He believes there is no harm in planning for 20 years in
order to generally address roads and sewers.
Mayor Tierney stated the partial expansion option may overlook major infrastructure that
will ultimately be needed. She believes that complete urban expansion planning makes
sense and that any subsequent development is a separate issue.
Director Hurlburt said the City must adopt a Transportation Plan through the year 2020.
The Council can consider ultimate urbanization of the City to forecast traffic volumes and
sewer capacity even if the land use plan is a 10 -year plan.
Mayor Tierney noted that the partial expansion option proposes development of the area
east of Vicksburg Lane, yet there are sites south of Highway 55 that have development
pressure, but are not in the urban service area. She asked if the Council will be
specifically designing the area to be added to the urban service area.
Director Hurlburt responded that one of the issues at the public hearing was the boundary
between the complete and partial expansion options. She said the lines should not be
viewed as exact, as those decisions will be made as part of the detailed sewer planning.
The area south of Highway 55 that is outside of the urban service area is somewhat
separated from the remainder of the area.
Councilmember Spigner said she previously supported the partial urban expansion
option. However, she tends to believe that planning should be done for the entire area.
She agrees with Councilmember Black that the Council will face increased pressure to
allow development at the fringes of the urban service area, and the entire area should be
appropriately planned. She would like to plan for the entire northwest Plymouth area,
without urbanizing it.
Director Hurlburt said that to urbanize the area means providing for the same level of
sewer, water, parks, and roads that existing in the rest of the City. Identifying the types
of densities desired are crucial in considering the planning elements.
The City's consultant, David Licht, described the level of urbanization in each of the
three planning options. He said there will be pressure to develop parcels from the west
and north edges of the urban service area. He explained that a major difference between
the options is that in the partial or no expansion options, there would be no sewer run into
northwest Plymouth. It would enhance the City's flexibility with respect to the Elm
Creek Interceptor to designate a complete urban expansion.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 13
Motion was made by Councilmember Wold, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
suspend the rules and extend the adjournment time to 12:00 midnight. Motion carried:
five ayes; Preus and Spigner nays.
Councilmember Spigner asked about special assessments.
Mr. Licht said assessments would be handled through the City's assessment policies. If
the City wants to preserve certain areas, the Council will want to review the policies so
that areas are not pressured to develop.
Councilmember Johnson recommended that development should occur only along
existing roadways, such as Schmidt Lake Road and Vicksburg Lane. She believes it is a
viable economic option to protect this area of Plymouth and retain hobby farms as part of
the City's housing stock.
Councilmember Wold supported the option for no urban expansion. He said that
although the City could use more affordable housing, none of the options would address
the problem. He believes that no urban expansion provides the best chance for preserving
northwest Plymouth. He has some concerns about spot development because of pressures
around the urban service boundary, but believes that the no expansion option is the best
for the entire community.
Councilmember Johnson said that the City may be able to limit development to areas
along major roadways under the partial expansion option. She believes that the roadway
system will always be inadequate to handle the complete expansion option.
Public Works Director Moore explained that the roadway system has been developed
along with the development of the land. He generally described the transportation plan
adopted in 1970 and updated in 1980 and 1990. He said the City has been strict about
requiring that infrastructure accompany development to ensure adequate capacity.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
call the question. Motion carried: six ayes; Tierney nay.
Motion to substitute carried: six ayes; Tierney nay.
Main motion failed: Bildsoe and Johnson ayes; Wold, Preus, Spigner, Black, and Tierney
nays.
Attorney Knutson announced that the motion to adopt the alternate resolution for
complete urban expansion with the six criteria is on the table.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 14
Councilmember Black explained that the committee which would be established by the
resolution would discuss specific issues, rather than the general planning issues discussed
to date. This committee could study and recommend the appropriate amount of growth,
as well as specific issues such as locations of roads and sewers.
Councilmember Johnson said that the City is working under a mandate to get the
Comprehensive Plan completed. She believes that the Council should adopt one of the
options this evening so that the sewer and road issues can be determined through a more
detailed planning process.
Attorney Knutson stated the staff and Planning Commission are seeking direction on the
level of expansion desired. Once an option is selected, the preparation of the
Comprehensive Plan can proceed.
Motion to substitute was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember
Spigner, to adopt Alternate A for limited area urban expansion.
Councilmember Preus expressed concern that the main motion to establish a committee
will delay the planning process. The surrounding communities are going to advance their
plans and this could force decisions on Plymouth. He believes that the City needs to have
roads and infrastructure in place to be prepared for growth in the future.
Councilmember Johnson said that if the Council decides to adopt the option for no urban
expansion, then infrastructure may not be needed. The City Council can review the
decision in 2010 and decide if the no urban expansion option is still desirable.
Councilmember Preus said that complete urban expansion and partial urban area
expansion are viable options, but he believes that the complete urban area expansion
option is a better long-term plan. He is concerned what will happen in 10 years if the
Council has no urbanization plan for northwest Plymouth.
Mayor Tierney said that the complete urban area expansion option would result in
development of only 60 percent of northwest Plymouth in the year 2020. She believes
that hobby farms, horse stables, and trails can be incorporated throughout the area if the
planning is done correctly.
Councilmember Black noted that an interceptor sewer line passes through some
communities and they don't hook up to the sewer line.
Councilmember Wold said that the no urban expansion option will take constant
vigilance by future City Councils because development pressures will increase.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 15
Councilmember Johnson stated that her concern with the no urban expansion option is
that she believes development should be allowed along Schmidt Lake Road and similar
roadways where there are roads and sewer to support development. She said that 18
percent of northwest Plymouth would be eligible for development under the partial urban
expansion option.
Director Hurlburt said that under the complete urban area expansion option, all of
northwest Plymouth would be within the urban service area by 2020, but development
would be staged. Under the partial urban area expansion, only part of northwest
Plymouth will be in the urban service area by 2020; however, the City Council would
revisit the issue in 2010 and could amend the plan. She said there are cities that are
entirely within the urban service area, but they have established tightly controlled areas
for development.
Mayor Tierney asked how the area south of Highway 55 would be addressed under the
partial urban area expansion option.
Director Hurlburt responded that under the partial expansion option, all of the area east of
Vicksburg Lane would be in the urban service area, along with property along the
extension of Schmidt Lake Road. The area south of Highway 55 is shown as outside of
the urban service area. This area will rely on the Elm Creek Interceptor for sewer service;
however, it could be considered for addition to the urban service area during detailed
sewer planning.
Public Works Director Moore said the area south of Highway 55 has been planned for
service from the Elm Creek Interceptor. If the Council allows that area to develop, it
would impact development of the area east of Vicksburg Lane.
Director Hurlburt added that serving any of the area under the partial expansion option
may rely on the Elm Creek Interceptor. The Interceptor is estimated for construction
through Plymouth in 2001.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Spigner, to
call the question on the motion to substitute. Motion carried: Wold, Johnson, Spigner,
and Preus ayes; Black, Bildsoe, and Tierney nays.
Motion to substitute complete urban area expansion for partial urban area expansion
failed: Preus aye; Bildsoe, Johnson, Wold, Spigner, Black, and Tierney nays.
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Black, to
call the question on Alternative Resolution D. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 16
Motion to adopt Alternative D failed: Black and Spigner ayes; Bildsoe, Wold, Johnson,
Preus, and Tierney nays.
Motion was made by Mayor Tierney, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
reconsider Alternative B: partial urban area expansion.
Councilmember Bildsoe supported the partial urban area expansion option. He said that
most of northwest Plymouth would remain outside of the urban service area and would be
reviewed in 10 years. He believes that less dense housing should be planned for this area
due to transportation issues. He would consider adding the area south of Highway 55 to
the urban service area because it has access to a transportation system.
Councilmember Johnson said that the area south of Highway 55 could be added to the
urban service area, along with the areas along Schmidt Lake Road and adjacent to the
Wayzata High School.
Motion to reconsider carried: Bildsoe, Johnson, Preus, and Tierney ayes; Black, Wold,
and Spigner nays.
Motion to amend was made by Councilmember Black, seconded by Councilmember
Wold, to add the six criteria from Alternative D and amending the fifth criteria to delete
a minimum of 100 feet on each side of the stream."
Councilmember Bildsoe asked if the sixth criteria, "establishment of greenways and open
space park areas" would be proposed through an open space purchase. Councilmember
Black responded yes.
Mayor Tierney asked how the first criteria, "preservation of the rural character of the
area," would be accomplished.
Councilmember Black said this could mean redesign of roads, wider setbacks from roads
and other housing areas, or cluster development. She believes the City can preserve the
rural character of the area through means other than maintaining five -acre lots.
Councilmember Johnson expressed concern about the criteria to preserve the rural
character of the area because this is subjective and could be interpreted as taking
property.
Motion to amend was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Mayor Tierney, to
delete the criteria "preservation of the rural character of the area."
Councilmember Black said it is important to give direction to incorporate the rural
character of the area into the planning process.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 17
Mayor Tierney stated that maintaining large lots will preserve the rural character.
Councilmember Bildsoe said that the partial urban expansion option automatically
preserves the rural character of the area because only 18 percent of northwest Plymouth
will be developed at any type of density.
Motion to amend carried: Bildsoe, Wold, Johnson, Preus, Spigner, and Tierney ayes;
Black nay.
Councilmember Preus said he will vote against the amendment to add the criteria because
he believes the items are covered elsewhere and it will clutter the resolution.
Councilmember Johnson supported the criteria, but agreed that the criteria are covered by
elsewhere by various codes and policies.
Councilmember Spigner supported the inclusion of the criteria in the resolution because
she believes it will help keep the Council accountable and keep issues in focus during the
detailed planning process.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to call
the question. Motion carried: Bildsoe, Wold, Johnson, Preus, and Tierney ayes; Black
and Spigner nays.
Motion to amend to add the five criteria carried: Wold, Johnson, Spigner, and Black
ayes; Bildsoe, Preus, and Tierney nays.
Motion to amend was made by Mayor Tierney, seconded by Councilmember Preus, to
include the land south of Highway 55 in the urban service area b the year 2020.
Councilmember Bildsoe suggested that this should be addressed during the detailed
planning.
Councilmember Johnson agreed. She said there will be other owners who want their
properties included in the urban service area.
Mayor Tierney said that the area south of Highway 55 is not contiguous to northwest
Plymouth and can be considered as a separate issue.
Motion to amend failed: Tierney aye; Bildsoe, Wold, Johnson, Preus, Spigner, and Black
nays.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 18
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Black, to
call the question. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion to adopt Alternative B as amended failed: Bildsoe, Johnson and Tierney ayes;
Wold, Preus, Spigner, and Black nays.
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember Black, to
adopt Alternative C: no urban area expansion option.
Mayor Tierney spoke against this option. She said that no expansion of the urban service
area will be an invitation for lot by lot requests for development.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
call the question. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion to adopt Alternative C failed: Black, Wold, and Spigner ayes; Bildsoe, Johnson,
Preus, and Tierney nays.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
reconsider Alternative Resolution B (partial urban area expansion) with the five criteria.
Motion carried: Bildsoe, Johnson, Spigner, Preus, and Tierney ayes; Black and Wold
nays.
Councilmember Preus said that the partial urban area expansion is not as good an option
as the complete urban area expansion option; however, it was the amendment to add the
criteria to the resolution that caused him to vote against it. He believes that the criteria
are addressed elsewhere in City policies and ordinances.
Motion to amend was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Mayor Tierney, to
delete the five criteria.
Councilmember Black said that several items addressed in the criteria, such as no
negative impact on watersheds and water quality, riparian corridors, greenways and open
space, are not addressed elsewhere in City ordinances or policies.
Councilmember Spigner said she would support deleting the criteria concerning
establishment of greenways and open space park areas. She is uncomfortable placing
these items in the Comprehensive Plan because the City may have to purchase open space
property through a referendum.
Councilmember Black said it is appropriate to place this intention in the Comprehensive
Plan. She said there are tools which could be used to establish greenways and open space
in addition to the City purchasing property.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 19
Motion to amend to delete the five criteria carried: Bildsoe, Johnson, Preus, and Tierney
ayes; Wold, Spigner, and Black nays.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Spigner, to
postpone this issue to December 2 and to hold a study session prior to that meeting.
Councilmember Johnson spoke against the motion. She said that the Council has just
discussed the issue for four hours and her position will remain unchanged by a study
session.
Councilmember Black questioned what staff would provide for the study session.
Councilmember Bildsoe said that he would like the Council to make the decision tonight
if at all possible, rather than go through another lengthy debate on the same issues.
Councilmember Preus suggested that the Council could review the plan in five years.
Director Hurlburt said the Council can amend its Comprehensive Plan as often as it
wishes to do so.
Motion to postpone until December 2 failed: Preus, Spigner, and Tierney ayes; Black,
Bildsoe, and Johnson nays; Wold abstained.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember Spigner, to
call the question. Motion carried: five ayes; Preus and Tierney nays.
Motion to adopt Alternative Resolution B failed: Bildsoe, Johnson and Tierney ayes;
Black, Wold, Preus and Spigner nays.
Motion was made by Councilmember Bildsoe, seconded by Councilmember Spigner, to
postpone the item to a special meeting on November 17.
Discussion was held on whether a study session on the issue will enhance the debate.
Councilmember Spigner said that the Council has enough information, but there is not
sufficient agreement on an option to adopt a motion. She will support either the complete
urban area expansion option or the no urban expansion option, but not the partial
development option.
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
call the question. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 20
Motion to postpone to a November 17 special meeting failed: seven ayes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
reconsider Alternative Resolution B (RESOLUTION 98-652 ESTABLISHING THE
GENERAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK FOR NORTHWEST PLYMOUTH
AND PROVIDING THE BASIS FOR DETAILED PLANS AS PART OF THE
CITY'S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE), including the six criteria (except
deleting preservation of the rural character of the area and "a minimum of 100 feet on
each side of the stream."
Motion was made by Councilmember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Bildsoe, to
call the question. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion to reconsider carried: Bildsoe, Johnson, Spigner, and Tierney ayes; Black, Wold,
and Preus nays.
Councilmember Preus asked if the criteria "establishment of greenways and open space
park areas" would be accomplished by the City purchasing property.
Director Hurlburt said that one aspect of the detailed planning will be a review of
greenways, open space, and parks. This criteria will be a statement of one thing to
consider in the process.
Councilmember Preus asked about the criterias of "no negative impact on the watersheds
and water quality" and "maintenance of current inflow stream rates."
Director Hurlburt said these will be much more difficult than the other criteria on the list.
Motion to amend was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember
Bildsoe, to change the criteria from "no negative impact" to "minimize negative impact"
on the watersheds and water quality. Motion carried: Bildsoe, Johnson, Preus, Spigner,
and Tierney ayes; Black and Wold nays.
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
call the question. Motion carried, seven ayes.
Motion to adopt Resolution 98-652 carried: Bildsoe, Johnson, Spigner, and Tierney ayes;
Black, Wold, and Preus nays.
Director Hurlburt said there will not be another formal vote on this issue until the draft
Comprehensive Plan is recommended by the Planning Commission.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 21
Councilmember Johnson that a study session be held prior to Council consideration of the
Comprehensive Plan.
Motion was made by Councilmember Wold, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
suspend the rules and extend the adjournment time to 12:15 p.m. Motion carried: six
ayes; Spigner nay.
8.2 (6.7) Establish Special Council Meeting
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
establish Tuesday, November 17, 1998, at 7:00 p.m. as a Special City Council meeting to
discuss Plymouth Fire Department issues and City Council rules and procedures. Motion
carried, seven ayes.
8.3 (6.8) Sale of Activity Center/Field House Bonds
Bruce Raines, 14125 37`h Avenue North, suggested that the Council consider delaying
this bond sale due to the current economic environment and the possibility of even lower
interest rates. He believes that a 30 -day delay in the sale may result in a'/4 or % point
downturn in the bond interest rate, and there is minimal risk that the rates will increase.
Finance Director Hahn responded that a 30 -day delay in the sale will not make a
significant difference. If bonds are sold now, there would be a firm number for the tax
levy.
Councilmember Bildsoe said that interest rates have declined significantly in the past
year, and municipal rates are the lowest in 20 years. He said the trend can be much
different in the short-term, and the City should not be in the business of trying to time the
market.
Finance Director Hahn said that the City may also consider selling special assessment
bonds in 1999 and it may exceed the $10 million cap if this bond sale is delayed until
next year.
City Manager Johnson added that the City's financial advisor has suggested avoiding the
last two weeks in December for sale of the bonds.
Motion was made by Councilmember Preus, seconded by Councilmember Black, to
adopt RESOLUTION 98-653 AUTHORIZING SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS
FOR SALE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION ACTIVITY BONDS, SERIES 1998C.
Motion carried seven ayes.
Adopted City Council Minutes
October 21, 1998
Page 22
Motion was made by Councilmember Spigner, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, to
adjourn the meeting at 12:05 p.m. Motion carried, seven ayes.
tQ/
haiAe Ahrens
City Clerk